Eurostar Upgrades New Train Fleet to Withstand Extreme Heat Up to 55C

Eurostar is enhancing its upcoming order of up to 50 new double-decker trains, dubbed 'Celestia', to withstand extreme temperatures of 55 degrees Celsius, a significant increase from the original design capacity of 45 degrees Celsius. This decision comes in the wake of severe heatwaves impacting Europe, including France, which recently recorded its hottest day in nearly 80 years.

The updated specifications are intended to ensure the new fleet, which will enter service in 2031 and operate into the 2060s, is prepared for future climate conditions. Gwendoline Casenave, Eurostar's chief executive, stated that the additional investment is justified given the trains' projected three-decade service life, during which temperatures could potentially reach levels currently seen in North Africa.

The €2 billion investment in the new trains, built by Alstom Group, was announced last year. Eurostar has confirmed an order for 30 trains with an option for 20 more. These 200-meter trains will operate across the five countries currently served by Eurostar, with potential to expand to Geneva and Frankfurt. The 'Celestia' name is derived from the Latin word 'caelestis,' meaning 'heavenly.'

Each new train is designed to increase seat capacity by 20 percent, accommodating approximately 540 passengers. When configured in a 400-meter formation for services through the Channel Tunnel, the capacity could rise to about 1,080 seats per service.

In addition to the train upgrades, Eurostar has been developing its 'solstice plan,' an emergency response system for heatwaves. This plan involves continuous monitoring of air conditioning and water supplies on trains, as well as ensuring robust maintenance systems. This proactive approach follows disruptions experienced last month, when heatwaves led to the cancellation of four Eurostar services between London and Paris on a single day due to expected adverse weather conditions.